An Urbana family is demanding justice after police arrested two young basketball players during a no-knock raid, accusing them of a February 2025 homicide without presenting any evidence.
On August 26, Urbana police executed a no-knock warrant at the home of Shamia Johnson, where her sons were asleep after returning from work.
According to family accounts, officers stormed the residence with snipers aimed at the teenagers before taking them into custody.
The arrest came after police received a single tip call linking the young men to the homicide.
Johnson, who has raised her sons in a structured, faith-driven household, called the arrests a devastating blow.
“To all who know my kids, they don’t get into trouble. They have been falsely accused and I need the best defense team to bring them home to us,” she wrote in an emotional post.
“This is spiritual warfare, but we have our armor on.”
Facebook
Relatives and friends quickly rallied behind her. Ari Barnes, a cousin, said:
“They don’t do nothing at all. They’re literally homebodies. They’re very family oriented, they play ball, they play the game, and they stay in the house. I don’t understand.”
Facebook
Others, including Nicky Watts, emphasized Johnson’s dedication as a mother.
“Anyone who knows my sister knows she’s done everything to keep them away from gangs, drugs, and the wrong crowd. These boys have graduated high school, work good jobs, go to church, and play ball. This is why the devil is mad—please don’t let another Black man go into the system unjustly.”
Facebook
Family members insist that police have not provided any evidence connecting Johnson’s sons to the homicide.
Instead, they argue the arrests are rooted in hearsay and malicious targeting.
“My nephews were arrested based on a tip call,” Johnson’s sister explained.
“No evidence was presented. They are childhood friends of the victim and even paid tribute to him at their high school graduation this past May.”
GoFundMe
The family alleges that police violated their rights during the raid, traumatized the young men, and even exposed their home address in media reports.
Facing mounting legal fees, Johnson has launched a fundraising effort to secure proper legal representation.
“I’m reaching out with a humble heart to ask for support,” she said.
“Legal consultation and court fees are costly, but I cannot fight this battle alone. Even a small donation can help us secure justice.”
GoFundMe
Community members have already pledged their prayers, donations, and voices to support the family. Lisa Lisa Cousett encouraged them to stay strong:
“Right now it may feel heavy, but at the end it shall be victory. It is so in Jesus’ name.”
Facebook
The Johnson family insists the real perpetrators remain free while innocent young men sit in jail.
They argue that the no-knock raid reflects a broader pattern of overreach and injustice in Urbana.
“It is unfortunate that a young man lost his life,” Johnson’s sister said.
“But this is not justice. Urbana deserves thorough investigations and ethical practices—not arrests based on hearsay.”
GoFundMe
For now, the family continues to fight for their sons’ release while calling on the community to stand against wrongful arrests and demand accountability from local authorities.
